What Are the Side Effects of AdvoCare?

Dehydration and electrolytic imbalances are some of the potential side effects of AdvoCare's popular weight-loss program, according to registered dietitian Laura Zavadil of the National Institute for Fitness and Sports. Zavadil also reports that one of her clients suffered from elevated blood pressure and temporary kidney failure after going through the program.

Lindsay Lo Proto of Vanderbilt University. Proto raises concerns about some of the ingredients used in AdvoCare's products. One of the ingredients, chitosan, is said to promote weight loss; however, George Blackburn, director of an organization that studies nutrition and medicine at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center disputes these claims, reports Proto. Studies proving the efficacy of chitosan are unreliable due to their limited sample and lack of peer review, adds Blackburn. A study cited by Proto shows that chitosan may potentially prevent absorption of critical nutrients that include vitamins K, E and D.

Zavadil warns that the supplements used in the initial phases of AdvoCare's weight-loss program may lead to dehydration. The energy drinks used in the program are not regulated by the FDA, she adds. Zavadil also points out that the program lacks dairy products and fruits in its meal plan, which has the potential to lead to critical deficiencies.